Trust urges public to talk openly about IBD symptoms

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is marking World Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Day on 19 May by raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of the condition and encouraging people to seek support early.

“Poo is not taboo” is the message from Trust staff, who are urging the public to speak openly about bowel health and seek help if they have concerns.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which includes Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis, affects people of all ages and can have a significant impact on daily life. Currently, over 17,000 people in Northern Ireland live with IBD.

Early recognition of the condition is key, as explained by StevieAnne Martin, a Nurse Specialist in Gastroenterology based at Causeway Hospital.

StevieAnne said: “IBD can affect people of any age and can often be mistaken for other conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, so it’s important to become familiar with the common symptoms. Always remember, poo is not taboo.”

Common symptoms of IBD can include persistent diarrhoea lasting more than four weeks, blood in the stool, urgency or needing to rush to the toilet, abdominal pain or cramping, unexplained weight loss, ongoing fatigue or low energy, and loss of appetite.

The Trust is also working closely with members of the Causeway IBD Patient Panel, who are sharing their experiences to help reduce stigma and encourage open conversation.

Chair of the panel Marie Munnis was first diagnosed with ulcerative colitis 17 years ago, but since she received the correct medication, it has made a massive difference.

“Ulcerative Colitis is really a taboo subject, it’s not easy to talk about your bowels, but help is out there and with the correct help and medication, you can go back to a normal life,” said Marie.

Another member of the panel, Abby Robinson, has her own unique story to share.

Abby, a Paediatric Community Nurse, was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 15 and required emergency surgery at 18, resulting in a stoma. She has since named her stoma bag Spencer.

Her message is clear to anyone feeling embarrassed about their symptoms:

“I just want everyone to know that you shouldn’t be ashamed and embarrassed of your condition, feel free to talk about your symptoms as there are people here to help,” explained Abby.

A third panel member, Jack Munnis, emphasised the importance of seeking advice:

“If you are experiencing symptoms always know that it is not your fault and there is nothing to be ashamed of but definitely get in touch with your GP if there is anything you find concerning,” he said.

The Northern Trust is encouraging anyone experiencing ongoing symptoms to contact their GP and access support. By raising awareness and sharing real-life experiences, the Trust hopes to break down stigma and ensure people feel confident seeking help.

For more information, visit Crohn’s & Colitis UK, where you can find many useful resources and guides about managing symptoms and living with IBD.

19th May 2026